Clarkston BID back following yes vote

Gillian Loney

The Clarkston Business Improvement District (BID) has been renewed for a second term following a vote from local firms.

The group — responsible for the I Love Clarkston campaign promoting the area as a shopping destination — will run for another five years following a majority yes ballot.

Gordon Paterson, BID chair, promises a new beginning for Clarkston, and “no more doom and gloom”.

He commented: “In these tough times for local high streets, it’s more important than ever that businesses work together to address the issues and challenges we face.

“We are determined to make Clarkston a better place to live, work and do business and will work closely with local people and organisations who share these objectives.

“The yes vote represents a boost for all those businesses who believe in the future of Clarkston and who see partnerships with each other, government, local authority and community organisations as the way forward.”

Plans already underway from the renewed BID team include more local events and external funding to spruce up the town centre — as well as a Clarkston community forum for both BID members and residents to have their say.

He added: “New street banners will also signal the new era of the BID and we hope to encourage even greater participation from all Clarkston businesses to be involved in BID activities.

“It is only by collectively working together thay we can make the much-needed changes to our town to make it a vibrant, thriving place to do business.”